KATHMANDU, July 18: The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology (DHM) has urged the public to remain vigilant as heavy to very heavy rainfall is forecast in several parts of the country today, raising the risk of floods, landslides and other rain-induced disasters.
According to meteorologist Sanjiv Adhikari, the country is currently under the influence of monsoon winds. The monsoon trough lies slightly north of its average position over the western Terai and around its normal position in the eastern region, increasing the likelihood of significant rainfall over the next three days.
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The DHM has forecast heavy rainfall at a few places and very heavy rainfall at one or two places in the hilly and Tarai areas of Koshi, Bagmati, Gandaki and Lumbini provinces today. One or two places in Karnali and Sudurpaschim provinces may also receive heavy rainfall.
The Department warned that the expected rainfall could trigger flash floods, landslides, debris flows and soil erosion. It said the weather could also disrupt daily life, agriculture, public health, tourism, mountaineering, and road and air transportation, urging the public to regularly follow weather updates.
The DHM said the weather will remain generally to fully cloudy across the country this afternoon, with moderate rain accompanied by thunder and lightning likely in many hilly and Tarai areas. Some places in the high Himalayan region may also receive snowfall.
Tonight, rain accompanied by thunder and lightning is expected in many parts of the country. Very heavy to extremely heavy rainfall is likely at one or two places in the hilly and Tarai areas of Koshi, Bagmati, Gandaki, Lumbini and Sudurpaschim provinces, prompting the Department to advise residents in vulnerable areas to exercise extra caution.